These reflections on various subjects have been written to offer understanding into the Scriptures as well as help in applying them to everyday living. They can be used for private or group devotions and group discussion.

The Suggestions for Prayer-Listening are intended to allow God to lead you in your times of prayer. With each suggested prayer, wait for inspiration and then follow God's leading as to how to pray further. Some of the suggested prayers will not apply to your life at this time, and sometimes you will not receive any leading. This only means you are to pray about something else.

The Holy Spirit will help you to comprehend God's leading, usually an impression on your mind or 'inner sight'. Some will receive inspiration in the form of a word or a Scripture reference. Others will see scenes with their inner imaginations that inspire them to pray. I have found it best to write down what God is leading me to pray so I have a record of it. I have left room for you to do so.

The Suggestions for Meditation are offered to help you draw closer to God and enjoy a more intimate relationship with Him.

Before your times of prayer or meditation it helps to do the following:

- sit in a quiet, comfortable place
- take two or three deep breaths and slowly exhale
- feel the tension leave your body as you relax
- invite God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) to be with you
- wait until you feel you are centered in His presence.

Two commonly used forms suggested in this book of meditation are:

a) contemplative prayer (or centering prayer) - empty your mind of thoughts so that God can fill you with what you desire from Him or whatever He desires for you. Some people repeat a Christian word; such as 'love' or 'Jesus' to help them set aside their thoughts and become centered in silence.

b) meditation - contemplate a Scripture passage or some other inspired writing and pray about it. You may want to ask God if there is some way you need to change your thinking or behavior. There may also be a promise that God wants you to claim.

May you discover closer fellowship with God and grow in wisdom and love as you contemplate His blessings granted to us through Jesus Christ.